China to Send Largest-ever Delegation to Busan Asiad

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Friday, August 30, 2002

China to Send Largest-ever Delegation to Busan Asiad

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Sending a 948-strong delegation to the 14th Asian Games in Busan, South Korea, the largest-ever one at any international multi-event games, sports powerhouse China will strive to defend its top position in Asian sports.

"The mission for the Chinese delegation is to secure a top finish at the golds and medals standings and maintain our lead in Asia," said Li Furong, deputy chef de mission of the Chinese delegation, at a press conference here on Thursday. "It will not be an easy job and we will work hard for it."

The biggest challenge for China will come from the hosts South Korea and Japan, which are also traditional sports powerhouses.

"We will also get young athletes to accumulate experience in international competitions in preparation for the 2004 and 2008 Olympic Games," Li, who is also vice-minister of the State Sports General Administration, added.

Except karate and kabadi, a total of 686 Chinese athletes will compete in 357 events of all the 38 sports, including debutants in rugby, squash and body-building.

China sent an 822-member delegation including 596 athletes to the last Asian Games in Bangkok, competing in the 34 sports.

"This time we send young athletes to Busan. Many of them have never taken part in any international multi-event games," Li said.

Of all the Chinese athletes to compete in Busan, 159 had taken part in the 1998 Asian Games held in Thailand and 103 competed at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games.

"We hope our young players will get mature as soon as possible and the experience in competing in Asiad is definitely needed."

"So, the more important goal for us in the upcoming Asiad is building up our young-studded teams for the next 2004 and even 2008 Olympic Games."

China made its debut at the Asian Games in 1974 and has clinched the top place at the five previous Games. At the 13th Asian Games in Bangkok, China won 129 gold medals for the top finish with South Korea and Japan standing second and third with 65 and 52 golds respectively.

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